Is it Possible to Acquire Measurements from a Thermocouple with an NI Voltage Input Module

Updated Dec 7, 2023

Reported In

Hardware

  • NI-9205
  • NI-9211
  • NI-9213

Issue Details

I have an NI voltage input module. I would like to know if I can acquire temperature data from a thermocouple with this module?

Solution

The thermocouple transforms a temperature into a voltage so technically, it is possible to acquire the data with your voltage input module. There are two important points:

  • First, you must amplify you signal with an electronic adaptation circuit to increase the value you acquire. Without this operation, it will be difficult to use the values from your thermocouple.
  • Secondly, you must be aware about the Cold Junction Compensation. For example, the NI 9205 has no CJC built-in, while thermocouple modules like the the NI 9211 or the NI 9213  do.